Therapeutic micro-vibration device

ABSTRACT

A therapeutic module for relieving pain and providing a curative healing effect includes a motor for rotating at least one magnet to generate a magnetic field, micro-vibrations and audible acoustic tones. A shaft couples the at least one magnet to the motor. The at least one magnet is coupled to the shaft in an offset configuration with respect to a centerline of the shaft thereby generating micro-vibrations in the form of oscillating inertial loads. The therapeutic module includes a light source for generating a photonic light field in an optical light spectrum.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. application Ser. No.11/121,602, filed May 4, 2005, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,335,170, which ishereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The embodiments of the present invention relate to a medical therapydevice that utilizes micro-vibratory massaging action with magnetic andphotonic light beam fields, accompanied by sound waves, to induce anincrease in cellular energy thereby providing pain reduction and healingin living cells.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The use of vibrating devices for massaging painful areas on the humanbody by stimulating blood flow has long been considered beneficial.Photonic light beam therapy, typically utilizing laser beams, forrelieving pain and healing anomalous tissue has also been used withvarying levels of success. Static and pulsating magnetic field therapyhas been used for many years throughout the world with varying levels ofsuccess. Sound waves, including music, for relieving tension andsoothing the human body have also been used. There is, however, no priorart that discloses or suggests coordination and integrative merging ofthe above-identified technologies in such a manner to bring about asynergistic enhancement of all four technologies.

The prior art discloses the use of electrically driven vibrators andmassagers that produce vibration that stimulates circulation to affectedtissues. Also, vibration and impact devices are known in the art toencourage bone growth. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,273,028 to KennethJ. McLeod discloses an apparatus for stimulating bone growth in a livingorganism by transmitting vertical vibrations through a plate upon whichthe person stands. U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,103,806, 5,376,065 and 5,191,880also to McLeod, claim methods for preventing osteopenia while promotinggrowth and healing of bone tissue, including fractured bones, bysubjecting the bone to a mechanical load.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,245,006 to Olson describes magnetic therapy as anestablished and reliable technology. U.S. Pat. No. 5,632,720 to Kleitzdescribes a motor driven magnetic massage wand which, during use, comesno closer than 18 inches to the human body. Therefore, the wand does notneed to come into physical contact with the body. The wand uses amagnetic field between 950 to 1050 gauss in intensity to facilitate anincrease in blood flow.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,602,275 to Sullivan discloses the use of dispersedphoton light waves at 470 nm, 630 nm and 880 nm to stimulate the humanhealing process by reducing inflammation, stimulating and rebalancingthe electromagnetic energy field surrounding living organisms anddetoxifying organs and tissue.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,035,235 to Chesky discloses the use of musical soundwaves as therapy for chronic and acute pain. U.S. Pat. No. 5,645,578 toDaffer et al also describes a therapeutic device that utilizes musicaltones.

Many of the prior art devices are large and expensive and may require apatient to lie down on the device for several hours. Some of the priorart devices are handheld devices but use only one or two of the subjecttechnologies. For instance, U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,001,055 and 6,231,497 toSouder claim a handheld device with one or more rotating permanentmagnets and a vibrating massaging feature. None of the prior art devicesutilize or suggest the use of mechanical micro-vibration, photon, sonic,and magnetic technologies in a handheld device which provides painrelief in a short period of time (e.g., seconds) from application.

The prior art is thus characterized by numerous disadvantages which areaddressed by the embodiments of the present invention. The embodimentsof the present invention minimize, and in some cases eliminate, theabove-mentioned disadvantages and shortcomings by utilizing integrationof technologies in a convenient handheld device. Clinical trials confirmnearly instant pain relief for patients.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, the present disclosure describes a handheld pain relievingdevice that includes an integrative combination of vibration, photon,magnetic and sonic technologies, that can be conveniently directed orapplied to an area of the human body suffering from pain or otheraffliction. In one embodiment, a system for relieving pain and providinga curative healing effect includes a handheld pain relieving device anda controller operatively coupled to the handheld pain relieving deviceto control one or more parameters of the handheld pain relieving device.

In one aspect, the device includes a motor that producesmicro-vibrations and audible signals and drives one or more permanentmagnets or electromagnets and one or more light sources. Importantly,the motor produces a very small electromagnetic field so as not tointerfere with the magnetic flux generated by the one or more permanentmagnets or electromagnets. An applicator end of the device is placed incontact with, or proximate to, an area of the body suffering from painor related affliction. During clinical trials, the combination of themagnetic, photon, vibration and sound technologies proved to providepain relief in very short time periods.

In another aspect, a therapeutic module for relieving pain and providinga curative healing effect is provided. The therapeutic module includes amotor for rotating at least one magnet to generate a magnetic field,micro-vibrations and audible acoustic tones. A shaft couples the atleast one magnet to the motor. The at least one magnet is coupled to theshaft in an offset configuration with respect to a centerline of theshaft thereby generating micro-vibrations in the form of oscillatinginertial loads. The therapeutic module includes a light source forgenerating a photonic light field in an optical light spectrum.

In another aspect, a system for relieving pain and providing a curativehealing effect includes at least one therapeutic module and a controlleroperatively coupled to the therapeutic module. The therapeutic moduleincludes at least one magnet coupled to a shaft in an offsetconfiguration with respect to a centerline of the shaft. A motor iscoupled to the shaft for rotatably driving the at least one magnet togenerate a dynamic magnetic field which penetrates living tissue andmicro-vibrations including oscillating inertial loads resulting fromrotation of the at least one magnet about the centerline. Thetherapeutic module also includes a light source for generating aphotonic light field in an optical light spectrum. The controller isconfigured to control the therapeutic module to facilitate relievingpain and providing a curative healing effect.

In another aspect, a method is provided for administering pain reliefwith at least one therapeutic module. The method includes rotating atleast one magnet to generate a magnetic field. The magnetic fieldincludes a moving circular magnetic field pattern with a centerline ofthe magnetic field parallel to a centerline of a rotating shaft couplingthe at least one magnet to a motor. A photonic light field is generatedin an optical light spectrum. The photonic light field is directed intothe magnetic field. Micro-vibrations are generated by rotating the atleast one magnet coupled to the shaft in an offset configuration in acircular pattern defined about a centerline of the shaft. Audibleacoustic tones are also generated. The at least one therapeutic moduleis placed in contact with, or proximate to, a pain area on a human oranimal body.

In another aspect, a therapeutic device for relieving pain and providinga curative healing effect is provided. The therapeutic device includes amotor for rotating at least one magnet to generate a magnetic field,micro-vibrations and audible acoustic tones. A shaft couples the atleast one magnet to the motor. The at least one magnet is coupled to theshaft in an offset configuration with respect to a centerline of theshaft thereby generating micro-vibrations in the form of oscillatinginertial loads. The therapeutic device also includes a light source forgenerating a photonic light field in an optical light spectrum. In afurther aspect, a system for relieving pain and providing a curativehealing effect is provided. The system includes the therapeutic deviceand a controller operatively coupled to the therapeutic device. Thecontroller is configured to control the therapeutic device to facilitaterelieving pain and providing a curative healing effect.

In another aspect, a handheld therapeutic device for relieving pain andproviding a curative healing effect is provided. The handheldtherapeutic device includes a plurality of magnets coupled to a shaft inan offset manner such that the plurality of magnets rotate in a circularpattern defined about a centerline of the shaft. The plurality ofmagnets are spaced unevenly about the centerline. The handheldtherapeutic device includes a motor for rotatably driving the pluralityof magnets to generate a dynamic magnetic field, which penetrates livingtissue, and micro-vibrations in the form of oscillating inertial loadsresulting from the rotation of the plurality of magnets about thecenterline of the shaft. At least one light source is configured togenerate a photonic light field in an optical light spectrum and aspeaker is configured to produce audible acoustic tones.

The device is unique in the well-established field of magnetic therapy,wherein stationary, static and/or multiple magnets are used, and photontherapy, wherein light beams are used in the absence of magnetic fieldsand physical massaging vibrations.

Magnetic therapy has been used for thousands of years around the world.Countries, including China, Japan, Russia, France and England haveproduced many documents on the subject. Around the world, magnetictherapy is considered a safe approach to healing. In the United Stateshowever, magnetic therapy is not generally considered a viable approachto healing. Nonetheless, some medical doctors in the United States havereported the use of static magnets to increase the speed at which bonefractures heal.

One area where magnetic technology has been extensively used in theUnited States is Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) technology. An MRIdevice generates a magnetic field, in the order of tens of thousands ofgauss, which is directed at a human body for exposing or producingimages or pictures of anomalous areas. An MRI is not used as a curativeor healing therapy. In contrast, the embodiments of the presentinvention generate magnetic fields less than ten gauss.

Recently issued U.S. Pat. No. 6,344,021 to Juster et al discloses thatmagnetic therapy speeds healing by boosting the body's synthesis ofadenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP is considered the fuel that fires allcellular processes and enhances the blood's ability to carry oxygen.Each individual cell possesses a positive electrical charge at itsnucleus and a negative charge at its outer membrane. To properlyfunction, the cells and nervous system rely on direct current (DC) andpulsed DC electrical energy. Consequently, life cannot exist without theflow of electricity. The '021 patent also reveals that static magnetictherapy requires lengthy periods of time (e.g., hours to days) beforerelief is realized by the patient. The embodiments of the presentinvention, however, utilize the specific combination of technologies toinduce the flow of electricity in afflicted areas. Based on extensiveclinical trials, patients have been relieved of chronic pain in secondsto minutes of treatment according to the embodiments of the presentinvention.

It is well known in the art that vibratory massage provides mechanicalstimulation of tissues to increase blood flow to affected areas andenhance pain relief.

Laser light beams are routinely used in medical facilities for thetreatment of a broad range of conditions including wound healing, edemareduction and post-operative pain relief. Light beams are directed tosmall areas or large areas of tissue depending on the condition andspecific needs. For example, light beam therapy is routinely used inconventional medical hospital environments on newborn babies afflictedwith yellow jaundice. Single lasers, multiple lasers, laser diodes andarrays are used to facilitate light beam therapy. U.S. Pat. No.6,746,473 to Shanks and Tucek discloses the use of multiple laser diodesources providing a continuous beam and another beam producing a spot ofpulsed laser light.

Sound waves have been used for centuries to both relax and stimulatehuman beings. This is one reason music has been popular since the dawnof mankind. Also, ultrasound technology is well known for therapeuticuse to produce thermal and non-thermal effects.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a cross-section view along a length of a micro-vibrationdevice of a first embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 1A shows a cross-section along direction A;

FIG. 2 shows a motor driving a magnet holder of the first embodiment thepresent invention;

FIG. 2A shows an end view of the magnet holder of FIG. 2;

FIG. 3 is a schematic of an electrical circuit used to provideelectrical power to micro-vibration device having one light source ofthe first embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3A is a schematic of an electrical circuit used to provideelectrical power to micro-vibration device having multiple light sourcesof the first embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 shows a cross-section view along a length of a micro-vibrationtherapeutic device of a second embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 shows a plan view of a controller suitable for use with themicro-vibration therapeutic device shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 shows a schematic view of a micro-vibration system including aplurality of therapeutic modules operatively coupled to a controller;

FIG. 7 shows a cross-section view along a length of the therapeuticmodule shown schematically in FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 shows a plan view of the controller shown schematically in FIG. 6and suitable for use with the therapeutic module shown in FIG. 7; and

FIG. 9 shows a front view of the micro-vibration therapeutic deviceshown in FIG. 4.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles inaccordance with the embodiments of the present invention, reference willnow be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specificlanguage will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless beunderstood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is therebyintended. Any alterations and further modifications of the inventivefeature illustrated herein, and any additional applications of theprinciples of the invention as illustrated herein, which would normallyoccur to one skilled in the relevant art and having possession of thisdisclosure, are to be considered within the scope of the inventionclaimed.

Applicants have developed a compact pain relief device and method of usefor imparting various forms of energy to a human or animal. The devicesimultaneously provides multi-dimensional, horizontal, vertical androtary, micro-vibration to selected areas of the body and thereforebiological cells. The term “micro-vibration” as used herein shall referto a rapid, reciprocating linear motion about an equilibrium position ora rapid symmetrical or asymmetric orbital motion about an axis, as wellas any other suitable motion consistent with the known meaning ofphysical “vibration” in the field of physics. Micro-vibration may alsobe considered any mechanical, photonic, magnetic and sonic or acousticvibration which, when the device is placed in contact with tissue, doesnot cause the tissue to move more than one-half millimeter in anydirection.

A first embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIGS. 1-3.The therapeutic device 5 comprises an electric motor 10 with a magnetholding fixture 15 attached to a motor shaft 20. Permanent magnet orelectromagnet 25 is attached and held in place within holding fixture15. As the permanent magnet or electromagnet 25 is connected to theshaft 20 in an offset manner, permanent magnet or electromagnet 25 isrotatably driven about the centerline of motor shaft 20 by motor 10.Depending on the use, the magnet 25 may be rotated at a constant oralternating rate of 500 to 150,000 revolutions per minute. Ideally, theintensity of the generated magnetic field is less than ten gauss.Importantly, the motor 10 should produce only a very smallelectromagnetic field so as not to interfere with the magnetic fluxgenerated by the one or more permanent magnets or electromagnets 25. Forexample, the motor 10 may produce a magnetic or electromagnetic fieldwith an intensity of less than 1% of that generated by the one or moremagnets 25.

The motor 10 is powered by batteries 30 in response to electrical on-offswitch 35 being turned on. As shown, the positive voltage (+) frombatteries 30 flows through electrical conductor 40 to motor 10 and thenegative voltage (−) flows through electrical conductor 45, batteryholding cap 50, device enclosure 55, switch holding enclosure 60,enclosure embodiment 65 and motor holding fixture 70 to motor 10.

Photonic light is produced by one or more light sources 75, such aslight bulbs. A laser or a light emitting diode may be used as well.Light sources 75 are electrically energized in a manner similar to motor10. FIG. 1A shows a cross-section end view which details magnet 25 andmultiple light sources 75. The light may fall into a broadband spectrumof light ranging from ultraviolet to infrared with optical lightwavelengths ranging from about 1 nanometer (nm) to about 12,000 nm andthe light sources 75 are directed into the magnetic field produced bymagnet 25.

The combined magnetic field created by permanent magnet or electromagnet25 and the photon electromagnetic field in the optical spectrum shouldnot create any bulk heat in living cells. Accordingly, the photonicelectromagnetic field in the optical light spectrum can be eithercontinuously illuminating or pulsating such that the amplitude of thelight intensity oscillates up and down in magnitude. In addition, thephotonic electromagnetic field in the optical light spectrum may haveeither one or multiple discrete narrow bands of light of 30 nanometers(nm) or less in width that individually pulsate or change intensityamplitude by oscillating up and down in magnitude or become intermittentwithin the broadband light spectrum field.

The micro-vibration massage of the first embodiment of the presentinvention is produced by activating motor 10 to rotate the magnetholding fixture 15. The physical vibration, herein referred to asmicro-vibration, is then transferred through motor holding fixture 70and enclosure 65. The offset attachment of the permanent magnet orelectromagnet magnet 25 to the shaft 20 creates oscillating inertialloads which are interpreted by human or animal senses asmicro-vibration. When enclosure 65 is placed in contact with human oranimal tissue, the micro-vibration is transferred to said tissue. Inpractice, the magnetic field produced by magnet or electromagnet 25 andthe photonic electromagnetic field in the optical spectrum produced bylight sources 75 are transferred to, and absorbed by, the body's cellsas enclosure 65 is placed in contact with, or proximate to, the body.Running motor 10 and/or solid state sound generator (not shown) alsoproduces an audible sonic sound that is likewise absorbed by the body. Asound transducer or voice coil speaker 80 is electrically driven in amanner similar to motor 10. The voice coil speaker 80 produces asoothing sound that is, as disclosed above, stimulating to human cells.

FIGS. 2 and 2A illustrate the relationship between motor 10, magnetholding fixture 15 and magnet 25. Basically, the power source (e.g.,batteries 30) drives the motor 10 that in turn rotates the magnetholding fixture 15 and contained magnet 25. FIGS. 3 and 3A illustratesan electrical schematic for the first embodiment of the presentinvention having one or multiple light sources 75, respectively. Theschematic of FIG. 3 comprises a power source 30, motor 10, light source75 and on-off switch 35. The schematic of FIG. 3A comprises a powersource 30, motor 10, multiple light sources 75 and on-off switch 35.

It has been found that a small rotating magnetic field, as generated bya single rotating magnet, produces enhanced electron flow within cellsbeing stimulated by light photons from the light sources 75. Thesynergistic effect increases the elimination of pain 5-10 times fasterthan photonic stimulation alone.

Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, in an alternative embodiment, a system 100for relieving pain and providing a curative healing effect includes ahandheld therapeutic device 105, as shown in FIG. 4, and a controller106, as shown in FIG. 5, operatively coupled to, such as in signalcommunication with, therapeutic device 105. Controller 106 may include acomputer or computer network (not shown) and/or handheld remotecontroller 106, as shown in FIG. 5, such as a cellular telephone or apersonal data assistance device. In an alternative embodiment,controller 106 includes a desk mounted controller 106. Controller 106includes suitable software configured to control, such as monitor and/oradjust, one or more parameters of therapeutic device 105, as describedin greater detail below. Therefore, a technical effect according to oneembodiment includes the capability of controlling operation oftherapeutic device 105 through controller 106 including monitoringand/or adjusting one or more parameters of therapeutic device 105.

Controller 106 is in signal communication, such as through a wiredconnection or a wireless connection, with therapeutic device 105 and isconfigured to control operation of therapeutic device 105 to facilitaterelieving pain and providing a curative healing effect. In oneembodiment, controller 106 is in wireless signal communication withtherapeutic device 105. A suitable radio frequency or digital technologyis utilized to provide wireless signal communication between therapeuticdevice 105 and controller 106. In a particular embodiment, therapeuticdevice 105 and controller 106 are configured with suitable componentssuch that controller 106 is in wireless signal communication withtherapeutic device 105 over a suitable wireless personal area network(PAN), such as a Bluetooth™ wireless PAN, to facilitate exchange ofinformation between controller 106 and therapeutic device 105. In thisembodiment, controller 106 is in communication with therapeutic device105 over a secure, short-range radio frequency. Controller 106 isconfigured to transmit command control signals to therapeutic device 105as directed by a user, a physician, a nurse or a system technician.Further, controller 106 is configured to receive signals transmitted bytherapeutic device 105 to facilitate monitoring and/or adjusting one ormore parameters of therapeutic device 105 based, in one embodiment, atleast partially on one or more signals transmitted by therapeutic device105.

As shown in FIG. 4, therapeutic device 105 includes suitable componentscontained within a housing 107 of therapeutic device 105 to facilitatewireless communication with controller 106. In one embodiment, aBluetooth™ module 108 including an antenna 109 is contained withinhousing 107 to facilitate signal communication between therapeuticdevice 105 and controller 106. Transmission of signals generated byBluetooth™ module 108 and reception of signals by antenna 109 fromcontroller 106 are processed by a Bluetooth™ controller 110 and/or oneor more microcontrollers 111 contained within housing 107 and inoperational control communication with Bluetooth™ module 108 and/orantenna 109 to facilitate signal communication between therapeuticdevice 105 and controller 106. Further, Bluetooth™ controller 110 and/ormicrocontroller 111 are configured to control one or more parameters oftherapeutic device 105, as described below, based at least partially onthe signal communication between therapeutic device 105 and control 106.In a particular embodiment, microcontroller 111 controls operation oftherapeutic device 105, as described in greater detail below, based atleast partially on command control signals received by Bluetooth™ module108 from controller 106. In certain embodiments, a power charge 112 isoperatively coupled to the Bluetooth™ wireless PAN components to providesuitable power for operation. Therapeutic device 105 may also includeone or more serial ID controllers 113. In alternative embodiments,therapeutic device 105 and/or controller 106 include any suitablecomponent, such as suitable PAN components in addition to or as analternative to Bluetooth™ wireless PAN components, to facilitatewireless communication between therapeutic device 105 and controller106.

Alternatively or in addition to wireless communication capability,therapeutic device 105 may be operatively coupled to controller 106using a suitable wired communication component, such as a USB cablecoupled to a cooperating USB port 114 of therapeutic device 105. Itshould be apparent to those skilled in the art and guided by theteachings herein provided that, in alternative embodiments, othersuitable wired and/or wireless communication technologies and/or systemsmay be used to provide signal communication between therapeutic device105 and controller 106.

Therapeutic device 105 includes an electric motor 116 with a magnetholding fixture 118 coupled to a motor shaft 120. At least one magnet125, such as one or more permanent magnet or one or more electromagnet,is attached and held in place within magnet holding fixture 118. Asmagnet 125 is coupled to motor shaft 120 in an offset manner, magnet 125is rotatably driven about a centerline of motor shaft 120 by motor 116to generate a dynamic magnetic field which penetrates living tissue andgenerate micro-vibrations including oscillating inertial loads resultingfrom rotation of magnet 125 about the centerline. Depending on the use,magnet 125 may be rotated at a constant rate of rotation or analternating rate rotation of about 500 revolutions per minute to about150,000 revolutions per minute. In a particular embodiment, a pluralityof magnets 125 are coupled to motor shaft 120 in an offset configurationsuch that magnets 125 rotate unevenly about a circle of rotation definedabout the centerline of motor shaft 120. In one embodiment, an intensityof the generated magnetic field is less than ten gauss. Further, motor116 produces only a very small electromagnetic field that does notinterfere with the dynamic magnetic field generated by the one or moremagnets 125. For example, motor 116 may produce a magnetic orelectromagnetic field with an intensity of less than 1% of an intensityof a dynamic magnetic or electromagnetic field generated by the one ormore magnets 125.

Motor 116 is powered by a power source, such as a suitable battery. Inone embodiment, a battery 130, such as a rechargeable lithium battery orany suitable rechargeable battery, is positioned within housing 107 oftherapeutic device 105. Referring to FIG. 4, battery 130 is operativelycoupled to motor 116 to power motor 116. In one embodiment, battery 130is activated to provide power to motor 116 in response to an electricalswitch (not shown) being turned on. It should be apparent to thoseskilled in the art and guided by the teachings herein provided that anysuitable power source including, without limitation, a charged orrechargeable battery may be utilized to power therapeutic device 105. Inone embodiment, a light (not shown) or other suitable indicatorindicates whether therapeutic device 105 is activated for operation ordeactivated.

Therapeutic device 105 also includes at least one light source 175 forgenerating a photonic light field in an optical light spectrum. Lightsource 175 may include a light bulb, a laser or a light emitting diode,for example. Light source 175 is electrically energized by battery 130.Light emitted from light source 175 may fall into a broadband spectrumof light ranging from ultraviolet light to infrared light. In aparticular embodiment, light source 175 produces the photonic lightfield in a broadband spectrum of light ranging from ultraviolet light toinfrared light having optical light wavelengths ranging from about 1nanometer (nm) to about 12,000 nm. In one embodiment, light source 175directs emitted light into the magnetic field generated by magnet 125.

The combined magnetic field generated by magnet 125 and the photonelectromagnetic field in the optical spectrum should not create any bulkheat in living cells. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the photonicelectromagnetic field in the optical light spectrum can be eithercontinuously illuminating or pulsating such that an amplitude of thelight intensity oscillates up and down in magnitude. In addition, thephotonic electromagnetic field in the optical light spectrum may haveeither one or multiple discrete narrow bands of light of 30 nanometers(nm) or less in width that individually pulsate or change intensityamplitude by oscillating up and down in magnitude or become intermittentwithin the broadband light spectrum field.

The micro-vibration massage of the alternative embodiment shown in FIG.4 is produced by activating motor 116 to rotate magnet holding fixture118. The physical vibration, herein referred to as micro-vibration, isthen transferred through an enclosure 176. The offset attachment ofmagnet 125 to motor shaft 120 creates oscillating inertial loads whichare interpreted by human or animal senses as micro-vibration. Whenenclosure 176 is placed in contact with human or animal tissue, themicro-vibration is transferred to the tissue. In practice, the magneticfield produced by magnet 125 and the photonic electromagnetic field inthe optical spectrum produced by light sources 175 are transferred to,and absorbed by, the body's cells as enclosure 176 is placed in contactwith, or proximate to, the body. Running motor 116 and/or a solid statesound generator (not shown) also produces an audible sonic sound that islikewise absorbed by the body. A sound transducer or voice coil speaker180 or other suitable component configured to produce audible acoustictones is electrically driven by battery 130 in a manner similar to motor116. Speaker 180 produces a soothing sound that is, as disclosed above,relaxing and soothing to human senses and stimulating to human cells.Alternatively or in addition, motor 116 produces audible acoustic tones.

It has been found that a small rotating magnetic field, as generated byone or more rotating magnets 125, produces enhanced electron flow withincells being stimulated by light photons from one or more light sources175. The synergistic effect increases the elimination of pain 5-10 timesfaster than photonic stimulation alone. Therapeutic device 105 producesmicrovibratory, electromagnetic, photon, biochemical stimulation thatinduces a change in cellular energy. More specifically, the magneticfield generated by the rotating magnet(s) 125 alters cellular energy inliving organisms. In one embodiment, the magnetic, photon, vibrationand/or sonic sound wave technologies results in a reduction in pain inless than five minutes.

Referring further to FIG. 5, handheld or desk mounted remote controller106 includes an antenna 182 to facilitate signal communication withBluetooth™ module 108 through antenna 109. Controller 106 also includesa display screen 184 configured to display icons and/or text, such asicons and/or text representative of command control signals generated bycontroller 106 and transmitted to therapeutic device 105 and/or signalsgenerated and transmitted by therapeutic device 105 to controller 106representative of one or more parameter values of therapeutic device105. Further, controller 106 includes a plurality of inputs 186, such astouch screen inputs, keys and/or knobs, configured to facilitatetransmitting command control signals to therapeutic device 105. Itshould be apparent to those skilled in the art and guided by theteachings herein provided that any suitable display screen and/or numberand/or type of input may be utilized to facilitate communication betweentherapeutic device 105 and handheld or desk mounted remote controller106.

As described above, controller 106 is configured to transmit commandcontrol signals to therapeutic device 105 to control one or moreparameters of therapeutic device 105. In a particular embodiment,controller 106 is configured to activate and/or adjust therapeuticdevice 105, activate and/or adjust motor 116 to rotate one or moremagnets 125 at an alternating rate of rotation or a constant rate ofrotation, adjust a light intensity of one or more light sources 175and/or a number of light sources 175 emitting light, and activate and/oradjust speaker 180 for producing acoustic tones, as described above, forexample.

Referring to FIGS. 6-8, in a further alternative embodiment a system 200for relieving pain and providing a curative healing effect includes atleast one handheld therapeutic module 205 and a controller 206operatively coupled to each therapeutic module 205. It should beapparent to those skilled in the art and guided by the teachings hereinprovided that system 200 may include any suitable number of therapeuticmodules 205 each independently coupled to controller 206 to facilitaterelieving pain and providing a curative healing effect. Controller 206may include a computer or computer network (not shown) and/or handheldremote controller 206, as shown in FIG. 8, such as a cellular telephoneor a personal data assistance device. In an alternative embodiment,controller 206 includes a desk mounted controller 206. Controller 206includes suitable software configured to control, such as monitor and/oradjust, one or more parameters of therapeutic module 205, as describedin greater detail below. Therefore, a technical effect according to oneembodiment includes the capability of controlling operation of eachtherapeutic module 205 through controller 206 including monitoringand/or adjusting one or more parameters of therapeutic module 205.

Controller 206 is in signal communication, such as through a wiredconnection or a wireless connection, with each therapeutic module 205and is configured to independently control operation of each therapeuticmodule 205 to facilitate relieving pain and providing a curative healingeffect. In one embodiment, controller 206 is in wireless signalcommunication with each therapeutic module 205, as shown in FIGS. 6-8. Asuitable radio frequency or digital technology is utilized to providewireless signal communication between each therapeutic module 205 andcontroller 206. In a particular embodiment, controller 206 is inwireless signal communication with each therapeutic module 205 over asuitable wireless personal area network (PAN), such as a Bluetooth™wireless PAN described above in reference to system 100, to facilitateexchange of information between controller 206 and each therapeuticmodule 205. In this embodiment, controller 206 is in communication witheach therapeutic module 205 over a secure, short-range radio frequency.In alternative embodiments, therapeutic module 205 and/or controller 206include any suitable component, such as suitable PAN components inaddition to or as an alternative to Bluetooth™ wireless PAN components,to facilitate wireless communication between therapeutic module 205 andcontroller 206.

Controller 206 is configured to transmit command control signals to eachtherapeutic module 205 as directed by a user, a physician, a nurse or asystem technician. Further, controller 206 is configured to receivesignals transmitted by each therapeutic module 205 to facilitatemonitoring and/or adjusting one or more parameters of the correspondingtherapeutic module 205 based, in one embodiment, at least partially onone or more signals transmitted by the corresponding therapeutic module205. Each therapeutic module 205 includes a powered circuit board (PCB)208 to facilitate signal communication between therapeutic module 205and control 206 and/or controlling one or more parameters of therapeuticmodule 205, as described below, based at least partially on the signalcommunication between therapeutic module 205 and control 206.

Alternatively, each therapeutic module 205 may be operatively coupled tocontroller 206 using a suitable wired communication component, such as aUSB cable coupled to cooperating USB ports (not shown in FIGS. 6-8) oftherapeutic module 205 and controller 206. It should be apparent tothose skilled in the art and guided by the teachings herein providedthat other suitable wired and/or wireless communication technologiesand/or systems may be used to provide signal communication betweentherapeutic module 205 and controller 206.

Referring further to FIG. 7, each therapeutic module 205 includes asuitable strap 207 and/or other suitable fastening component tofacilitate retaining therapeutic module 205 at a desired position orlocation with respect to the patient's body. For example, withtherapeutic module 205 positioned on a forearm of the patient, strap 207may be positioned about the patient's arm to retain therapeutic module205 properly positioned at the desired location on the forearm. As shownin FIG. 7, each therapeutic module 205 includes a module housing 209configured to contain an electric motor 210 with a magnet holdingfixture 215 coupled to a motor shaft 220. At least one magnet 225, suchas one or more permanent magnet or one or more electromagnet, is coupledand held in place within magnet holding fixture 215. As magnet 225 iscoupled to motor shaft 220 in an offset manner, magnet 225 is rotatablydriven about a centerline of motor shaft 220 by motor 210 to generate adynamic magnetic field which penetrates living tissue and generatemicro-vibrations including oscillating inertial loads resulting fromrotation of magnet 225 about the centerline. Depending on the use,magnet 225 may be rotated at a constant rate of rotation or analternating rate of rotation of about 500 revolutions per minute toabout 150,000 revolutions per minute. In a particular embodiment, aplurality of magnets 225 are coupled to shaft 220 in an offsetconfiguration such that magnets 225 rotate unevenly about a circle ofrotation defined about the centerline of shaft 220. In one embodiment,an intensity of the generated magnetic field is less than 10 gauss.Further, motor 210 produces only a very small magnetic field that doesnot interfere with the dynamic magnetic field generated by the one ormore magnets 225. For example, motor 210 produces a magnetic orelectromagnetic field with an intensity of less than 1% of an intensityof a dynamic magnetic or electromagnetic field generated by the one ormore magnets 225.

Motor 210 is powered by a power source, such as a suitable battery. Inone embodiment, a battery 230, such as a rechargeable lithium battery orany suitable rechargeable battery, is positioned within a housing 232 oftherapeutic module 205. It should be apparent to those skilled in theart and guided by the teachings herein provided that any suitable powersource including, without limitation, a charged or rechargeable batterymay be utilized to power each therapeutic module 205. In one embodiment,a light 234 or other suitable indicator indicates whether therapeuticmodule 205 is activated for operation or deactivated.

Therapeutic module 205 also includes at least one light source 275 forgenerating a photonic light field in an optical light spectrum. Lightsource 275 may include a light bulb, a laser or a light emitting diode,for example. Light source 275 is electrically energized by battery 230.Light emitted from light source 275 may fall into a broadband spectrumof light ranging from ultraviolet light to infrared light. In aparticular embodiment, light source 275 produces the photonic lightfield in a broadband spectrum of light ranging from ultraviolet light toinfrared light having optical light wavelengths ranging from about 1nanometer (nm) to about 12,000 nm. In one embodiment, light source 275directs emitted light into the magnetic field generated by magnet 225.

The combined magnetic field generated by magnet 225 and the photonelectromagnetic field in the optical spectrum should not create any bulkheat in living cells. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the photonicelectromagnetic field in the optical light spectrum can be eithercontinuously illuminating or pulsating such that an amplitude of thelight intensity oscillates up and down in magnitude. In addition, thephotonic electromagnetic field in the optical light spectrum may haveeither one or multiple discrete narrow bands of light of 30 nanometers(nm) or less in width that individually pulsate or change intensityamplitude by oscillating up and down in magnitude or become intermittentwithin the broadband light spectrum field.

The micro-vibration massage of the alternative embodiment shown in FIG.7 is produced by activating motor 210 to rotate magnet holding fixture215. The physical vibration, herein referred to as micro-vibration, isthen transferred through an enclosure 276. The offset attachment ofmagnet 225 to motor shaft 220 creates oscillating inertial loads whichare interpreted by human or animal senses as micro-vibration. Whenenclosure 276 is placed in contact with human or animal tissue, themicro-vibration is transferred to the tissue. In practice, the magneticfield produced by magnet 225 and the photonic electromagnetic field inthe optical spectrum produced by light sources 275 are transferred to,and absorbed by, the body's cells as enclosure 276 is placed in contactwith, or proximate to, the body. Running motor 210 and/or a solid statesound generator (not shown) also produces an audible sonic sound that islikewise absorbed by the body. In one embodiment, a sound transducer orvoice coil speaker 280 or other suitable component configured to produceaudible acoustic tones is electrically driven by battery 230 in a mannersimilar to motor 210. Speaker 280 produces a soothing sound that is, asdisclosed above, relaxing and soothing to human senses and stimulatingto human cells. Alternatively or in addition, motor 210 produces audibleacoustic tones.

It has been found that a small rotating magnetic field, as generated byone or more rotating magnets 225, produces enhanced electron flow withincells being stimulated by light photons from one or more light sources275. The synergistic effect increases the elimination of pain 5-10 timesfaster than photonic stimulation alone. Therapeutic module 205 producesmicrovibratory, electromagnetic, photon, biochemical stimulation thatinduces a change in cellular energy. More specifically, the magneticfield generated by the rotating magnet(s) 225 alters cellular energy inliving organisms. In one embodiment, the magnetic, photon, vibrationand/or sonic sound wave technologies results in a reduction in pain inless than five minutes.

Referring further to FIG. 8, handheld or desk mounted remote controller206 includes a display screen 282 configured to display icons and/ortext, such as icons and/or text representative of command controlsignals generated by controller 206 and transmitted to therapeuticmodule 205 and/or signals generated and transmitted by therapeuticmodule 205 to controller 206 representative of one or more parametervalues of therapeutic module 205. Further, controller 206 includes aplurality of inputs 284, such as touch screen inputs, keys and/or knobs,configured to facilitate transmitting command control signals totherapeutic module 205. It should be apparent to those skilled in theart and guided by the teachings herein provided that any suitabledisplay screen and/or number and/or type of input may be utilized tofacilitate communication between therapeutic module 205 and controller206.

As described above, controller 206 is configured to transmit commandcontrol signals to therapeutic module 205 to control one or moreparameters of therapeutic module 205. In a particular embodiment,controller 206 is configured to activate and/or adjust therapeuticmodule 205, activate and/or adjust motor 210 to rotate magnet 225 at analternating rate of rotation or a constant rate of rotation, adjust alight intensity of light source 275 and/or a number of light sources 275emitting light, and activate and/or adjust speaker 280 for producingacoustic tones, as described in greater detail above, for example.

In one embodiment, therapeutic device 105 is configured to generate amicrocurrent to provide transcuteneous electrical stimulation therapy.As shown in FIG. 9, a positive terminal 300 and a negative terminal 302are each operative coupled to battery 130 (not shown in FIG. 9) suchthat, with enclosure 176 contacting a patient's skin, a microcurrentflows along a path defined by the resulting electric circuit. In aparticular embodiment, the microcurrent of less than about 1 milliampereis generated between positive terminal 300 and negative terminal 302 tofacilitate providing transcuteneous electrical stimulation therapy foradministering pain relief.

In one embodiment, a method for administering pain relief with at leastone therapeutic module includes rotating at least one magnet to generatea magnetic field. The magnetic field includes a moving circular magneticfield pattern with a centerline of the magnetic field parallel to acenterline of a rotating shaft coupling the at least one magnet to amotor. A photonic light field is generated in an optical light spectrumproducing light having an optical light wavelength ranging from about 1nanometer to about 12,000 nanometers. In a particular embodiment, thephotonic light field is directed into the magnetic field. Additionally,micro-vibrations are generated by rotating the at least one magnetcoupled to the shaft in an offset configuration in a circular patterndefined about a centerline of the shaft. A magnetic field is generatedby rotating the at least one magnet at an alternating rate or a constantrate between about 500 revolutions per minute and about 150,000revolutions per minute. In a particular embodiment, audible acoustictones that soothing are also generated by the therapeutic module. The atleast one therapeutic module is placed in contact with, or proximate to,a pain area on a human or animal body. In one embodiment, upon contactwith the at least one therapeutic module, a compliant surface of thebody does not move more than one-half millimeter in a direction as aresult of the generated micro-vibrations. Further, the magnetic field,the photonic optical light field and micro-vibrations do not producebulk heating formed in living cells or tissue.

A controller is operatively coupled to each therapeutic module. Thecontroller may include a computer and/or a handheld or desk mountedcontroller that includes software configured to control one or moreparameters of each therapeutic module.

The present disclosure describes a therapeutic micro-vibration massagingdevice that generates a dynamic magnetic field and an electromagneticphotonic light field, accompanied by audible acoustic sound, thatpenetrate the human body, induce an increase in cellular energy andthereby promote a curative healing effect that reduces or eliminatespain.

While the invention has been described in terms of various specificembodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the inventioncan be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of theclaims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A therapeutic module for relieving pain andproviding a curative healing effect, said therapeutic module comprising:a motor for rotating at least one magnet to generate a magnetic field,micro-vibrations and audible acoustic tones; a shaft coupling said atleast one magnet to said motor, said at least one magnet coupled to saidshaft in an offset configuration with respect to a centerline of saidshaft thereby generating micro-vibrations in the form of oscillatinginertial loads; and a light source for generating a photonic light fieldin an optical light spectrum.
 2. A therapeutic module in accordance withclaim 1 wherein said at least one magnet comprises one or more of thefollowing: a permanent magnet and an electromagnet.
 3. A therapeuticmodule in accordance with claim 1 wherein said at least one magnetcomprises a plurality of magnets coupled to said shaft in an offsetconfiguration such that said plurality of magnets rotate unevenly abouta circle of rotation defined about the centerline of said shaft.
 4. Atherapeutic module in accordance with claim 1 further comprising aspeaker configured to produce audible acoustic tones to facilitaterelieving pain and providing a curative healing effect.
 5. A therapeuticmodule in accordance with claim 1 further comprising an electroniccircuit board coupled in control communication with said motor, saidelectronic circuit board configured to control one or more parameters ofsaid therapeutic module.
 6. A therapeutic module in accordance withclaim 5 wherein said electronic circuit board is configured to controlat least one of activating said motor to rotate said at least onemagnet, a rate of rotation of said at least one magnet at one of analternating rate and a constant rate, a light intensity of said lightsource, a number of light sources emitting light, and said speaker forproducing acoustic tones.
 7. A therapeutic module in accordance withclaim 1 further comprising a power source positioned within a housing ofsaid therapeutic module, said power source operatively coupled to saidmotor.
 8. A therapeutic module in accordance with claim 1 wherein saidlight source produces a photonic light field in a broadband spectrum oflight ranging from ultraviolet to infrared having optical lightwavelengths of about 1 nanometer to about 12,000 nanometers.
 9. Atherapeutic module in accordance with claim 1 wherein said motorgenerates micro-vibrations such that, upon contact with said therapeuticmodule, a compliant surface does not move more than one-half millimeterin a direction.
 10. A therapeutic module in accordance with claim 1wherein said magnetic field and said photonic light field do not producebulk heating in living cells or tissue.
 11. A therapeutic module inaccordance with claim 1 wherein said magnetic field is no more than tengauss in field intensity.
 12. A therapeutic module in accordance withclaim 1 wherein said magnetic field is created by rotating said at leastone magnet at one of an alternating rate and a constant rate betweenabout 500 and about 150,000 revolutions per minute.
 13. A therapeuticmodule in accordance with claim 1 wherein said therapeutic moduleproduces vibratory, magnetic, photon and biochemical stimulation thatinduce a change in cellular energy.
 14. A therapeutic module inaccordance with claim 1 wherein said magnetic field alters cellularenergy in living organisms.
 15. A therapeutic module in accordance withclaim 1 wherein at least one of micro-vibration, magnetic, photon,audible and acoustic sound wave technologies produces a reduction inpain in less than five minutes.
 16. A therapeutic module in accordancewith claim 1 wherein said motor produces a magnetic field that does notinterfere with said dynamic magnetic field generated by said at leastone magnet, said motor producing the magnetic field not greater than 1%of said dynamic magnetic field generated by said at least one magnet.17. A therapeutic module in accordance with claim 1 further comprising afastening component to facilitate retaining said therapeutic module at adesired location with respect to a patient body.
 18. A system forrelieving pain and providing a curative healing effect comprising: atleast one therapeutic module comprising: at least one magnet coupled toa shaft in an offset configuration with respect to a centerline of saidshaft; a motor coupled to said shaft for rotatably driving said at leastone magnet to generate a dynamic magnetic field which penetrates livingtissue and micro-vibrations comprising oscillating inertial loadsresulting from rotation of said at least one magnet about thecenterline; and a light source for generating a photonic light field inan optical light spectrum; and a controller operatively coupled to saidat least one therapeutic module, said controller configured to controlsaid at least one therapeutic module to facilitate relieving pain andproviding a curative healing effect.
 19. A system in accordance to claim18 wherein said at least one therapeutic module further comprises aspeaker configured to produce audible acoustic tones.
 20. A system inaccordance with claim 18 wherein said at least one magnet comprises oneof a permanent magnet and an electromagnet.
 21. A system in accordancewith claim 18 wherein said at least one magnet comprises a plurality ofmagnets coupled to said shaft in an offset configuration such that saidplurality of magnets rotate unevenly about a circle of rotation definedabout the centerline of said shaft.
 22. A system in accordance withclaim 18 comprising a plurality of therapeutic modules.
 23. A system inaccordance with claim 18 wherein said controller coupled is configuredto control one or more parameters of said at least one therapeuticmodule.
 24. A system in accordance with claim 23 wherein said controlleris configured to control at least one of activating said motor to rotatesaid at least one magnet, a rate of rotation of said at least one magnetat one of an alternating rate and a constant rate, a light intensity ofsaid light source, a number of light sources emitting light, and aspeaker for producing acoustic tones.
 25. A system in accordance withclaim 18 wherein said controller comprises one of a remote control and acomputer.
 26. A system in accordance with claim 18 wherein saidcontroller is operatively coupled to said at least one therapeuticmodule via at least one of a wired connection and a wireless connection.27. A system in accordance with claim 18 wherein said light sourceproduces the photonic light field in a broadband spectrum of lightranging from ultraviolet to infrared having optical light wavelengthsfrom about 1 nanometer to about 12,000 nanometers.
 28. A system inaccordance with claim 18 wherein said magnetic field is created byrotating said at least one magnet at one of an alternating rate and aconstant rate between about 500 and about 150,000 revolutions perminute.
 29. A system in accordance with claim 18 wherein said audibleacoustic tones are relaxing and soothing to human senses.
 30. A systemin accordance with claim 18 wherein said at least one therapeutic moduleproduces microvibratory, electromagnetic, photon, biochemicalstimulation that induces a change in cellular energy.
 31. A system inaccordance with claim 18 wherein said magnetic field alters cellularenergy in living organisms.
 32. A system in accordance with claim 18wherein at least one of magnetic, photon, vibration and sonic sound wavetechnologies results in a reduction in pain in less than five minutes.33. A system in accordance with claim 18 wherein at least one of saidmotor and a speaker produces audible acoustic tones.
 34. A method foradministering pain relief with at least one therapeutic module, saidmethod comprising: rotating at least one magnet to generate a magneticfield, the magnetic field comprising a moving circular magnetic fieldpattern with a centerline of the magnetic field parallel to a centerlineof a rotating shaft coupling the at least one magnet to a motor;generating a photonic light field in an optical light spectrum, thephotonic light field directed into the magnetic field; generatingmicro-vibrations by rotating the at least one magnet coupled to theshaft in an offset configuration in a circular pattern defined about acenterline of the shaft; generating audible acoustic tones; and placingthe at least one therapeutic module in contact with, or proximate to, apain area on a human or animal body.
 35. A method in accordance withclaim 34 further comprising operatively coupling the at least onetherapeutic module to a controller.
 36. A method in accordance withclaim 35 wherein the therapeutic module is operatively coupled to one ofa computer and a controller comprising software configured to controlone or more parameters of the at least one therapeutic module.
 37. Amethod in accordance with claim 34 further comprising producing opticallight wavelengths ranging from about 1 nanometer to about 12,000nanometers.
 38. A method in accordance with claim 34 further comprisinggenerating micro-vibrations such that, upon contact with the at leastone therapeutic module, a compliant surface does not move more thanone-half millimeter in a direction.
 39. A method in accordance withclaim 34 further comprising producing the magnetic field and thephotonic optical light field and micro-vibrations such that no bulkheating is formed in living cells or tissue.
 40. A method in accordancewith claim 34 further comprising generating the magnetic field byrotating the at least one magnet at one of an alternating rate and aconstant rate between about 500 and about 150,000 revolutions perminute.